Went on an unplanned hike at Tennessee Valley with Heather and we had a blast! Saw a huge variety of mushrooms, had fun jumping in puddles and, as always, great conversations. Perfect hiking weather and we got out before the hordes. On the way back as we descended the Fox trail we started to see more people and by the time the parking lot was in view it felt like we were in the city. It was a good workout- over 7 miles and lots of elevation gain and fall.
I spent the afternoon working on a collage project, doing some writing and wrapping Christmas presents for the kids. It felt good to have worked hard and then be able to relax the rest of the day.
On my morning walk I slipped in mud in a spot that had seemed like a safe place to walk. Luckily, I managed to keep myself upright. So this was my omen to know that in the new year there will likely be unexpected slips, muddy spots where I’ll lose my balance. even with the best preparation and it’s okay. I can right myself and keep going. Slipping shows that I’ve been doing something and I’m learning and growing from it. And mud can always be washed off. No harm done.
On my walk I was thinking about the Swedish Christmas cookbook from my Aunt Karen that has the famous gingersnap recipe I’ve made every Thanksgiving and Christmas since my kids were little. Now all of my kids make them – it feels so good to have that tradition, something that’s special to them and also different (gingersnaps are not a common cookie) and how much they appreciate that.
July memories – my 56th birthday, going to a very crowded Stinson Beach on a sunny 4th of July morning with my sister Lori then going to the Marin County Fair and seeing local dance performances, 4H animals, artwork and ending the day having a blast singing and dancing to a whole bunch of tribute bands with Lori, Lisa, Chrissy and Abby, going back to Stinson again the next day when it was overcast and much less crowded, Irving Penn photo exhibit at the De Young, sitting among the eucalyptus trees in a friendly crowd listening to the San Francisco Symphony at the Stern Grove Festival – awesome. Getting to know everyone better at VCRC, looking after the dogs at Michelle and Tim’s again and more exploring in the area, seeing Zepparella at the Concord farmers market and music. Enjoying all the festivities for the Port Chicago weekend including panel discussions about exoneration efforts, the Port Chicago 50 play, the ceremony celebrating the exoneration of all of the men and spending time with all the amazing people who were part of that process. Getting out for a hike to Olompali with Heather, spending two nights a week at Emmy’s house for an easier commute to work – wonderful spending regular time with her. Mom falling and breaking her wrist – an emergency room visit, but she was in good spirits, going to visit Aunt Annie. Lots of celebration this month but no idea what was ahead for Mom.